Chargers: The returner could be newcomer Lavelle Hawkins, who had a 105-yard kickoff return in preseason in which being grazed on his ankle was the only touch.

Edge, Chargers: Nick Novak has been very accurate, Hawkins may add a big-play element.

Raiders: The dependable Sebastian Janikowski already has missed 3 of 8 field goal tries, and he has a new holder after working 13 years with Shane Lechler.

coaching

Chargers: Mike McCoy rightfully praised his staff for the preparation it achieved against Cowboys. Ken Whisenhunt and Rivers certainly seem in sync.

Edge, Chargers: Adjustment battle won last week, proved tough times no obstacle.

Raiders: Second-year coach Dennis Allen instilled culture of accountability long lacking. But there’s been so much turnover in personnel that continuity still big problem.

Raiders: After sitting out last week with concussion, will Terrelle Pryor be same threat to run ball? Does it matter? Raiders won game in which he ran for fewest yards.

intangibles

Chargers: Beating the Cowboys to get back to .500 was enormous for the entire team’s confidence. There is a sense that Rivers can do anything he wants right now.

Edge, Chargers: San Diego sees traveling to Oakland as no obstacle to winning.

Raiders: They had the opposite experience last week, losing to the previously winless Redskins. Pryor will have to be stellar to produce hope.

overall advantage

Chargers: Rivers is 11-3 against the Raiders and the rowdy fans in the Black Hole only seem to fire him up more. The Chargers have a strong edge on offense, but can’t let Pryor kill them with big running plays.

Chargers

raiders

vs.

running backs

Chargers: The deficiencies have been less glaring because of Rivers’ play. San Diego is 18th in NFL in rushing offense.